We often turn to the Church to mark key events in our lives, whether the joy of a
new birth or wedding, or the sadness of losing a loved one. Our churches are here to celebrate with you, to bless you, mourn with you, and support you, whatever stage of life you're in.
Many of these key moments include our faith milestones, such as baptism and confirmation. Celebrating the birth of a child with a baptism, getting married, and marking the end of a life with a funeral are important moments for families. The Church has centuries of experience in supporting people through these life transitions, and we'd love to walk with you on your journey.
Find out more about key life events below and .
Christenings
In christenings, we thank God for his gift of life and publicly acknowledge his love. In the Anglican Church, it is common to baptise young children; this is sometimes known as a christening. Baptism is a sacrament (meaning a holy ritual that symbolises God's grace) in the Christian tradition and can be traced back to Jesus himself being baptised in the River Jordan.
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Adult Baptism
Whenever it happens, whether as a baby, child or adult, baptism is at the heart of an amazing journey of faith as a follower of Jesus Christ. You are never too old to take this step, and being baptised as an adult can be a wonderful experience.
Confirmation
Confirmation marks the point in the Christian journey at which you affirm for yourself the faith into which you have been baptised and your intention to live a life of committed discipleship. This affirmation is confirmed through prayer and the laying on of hands by the bishop. The Church also asks the Holy Spirit to strengthen and guide you as you seek to live in the way of Jesus.
Weddings
Today, more than a quarter of all marriages in England take place before God in the traditional setting of a Church of England church. You’re welcome to marry in church whatever your beliefs, whether or not you are baptised, and whether or not you go to church. Couples can marry in their local church or a church with which they have a qualifying connection.
Funerals
A funeral marks the end of a person's life on earth and provides an opportunity for family and friends to express their grief and loss, give thanks for the life that has been lived, and commend the person into God's keeping.